McIntosh C2700
The C2700 is McIntosh's current flagship preamplifier. It pairs vacuum tubes with solid-state circuitry, and it has a built-in high-resolution DAC and a full set of digital inputs.
Specifications
- Tube Complement: 2× 12AX7A, 2× 12AT7
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz (+0, -0.5dB)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08% max
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB (balanced), 95dB (unbalanced)
- Input Sensitivity: 250mV (phono MM), 500mV (line)
- Digital Resolution: Up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256
- Dimensions: 17.5" W × 7" H × 18" D
- Weight: 45 lbs
- Production Years: 2016–Present
History
McIntosh introduced the C2700 in 2016 as its new flagship preamplifier, succeeding the C2500. It is a hybrid, with both vacuum tube and solid-state sections. The goal was a preamplifier that could sit at the center of a modern high-end system and keep the musicality McIntosh had been known for over decades.
Development focused on a few areas. McIntosh built in a state-of-the-art digital-to-analog converter. It reworked the phono stage to handle both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. And it designed a user interface that balanced traditional McIntosh looks with modern functionality. The result was a preamplifier that could handle any source - vintage vinyl or high-resolution digital - with equal excellence.
Since its introduction, the C2700 has become the reference preamplifier for many of the world's most discerning audio systems. Longtime McIntosh owners and newcomers to high-end audio both find it appealing.
Hybrid Design Philosophy
The C2700 combines vacuum tube and solid-state technologies:
- Tube Input Stage: 12AX7A tubes provide warmth and musicality
- Solid-State Output: Precision circuitry for low noise and high current
- Tube Power Supply: Dedicated regulated supply for tube sections
- Digital Isolation: Separate power and ground for digital circuitry
- Modular Construction: Independent sections for optimal performance
Digital Capabilities
The C2700 includes a full digital audio section:
- High-Resolution DAC: Supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256
- Digital Inputs: 2× coaxial, 2× optical, 1× USB, 1× MCT (for McIntosh transports)
- Digital Processing: 8-channel, 32-bit digital filter architecture
- USB Interface: Asynchronous operation for lowest jitter
- MCT Input: Optimized for McIntosh SACD/CD transports
Analog Excellence
The C2700 keeps McIntosh's tradition of analog design:
- Phono Stage: Switchable MM/MC with adjustable loading
- Balanced Design: Fully differential from input to output
- Discrete Construction: No integrated circuits in the audio path
- Precision Volume Control: 0.5dB steps for perfect level matching
- Tone Controls: Defeatable bass and treble adjustment
User Interface & Connectivity
The C2700 offers comprehensive connectivity and control:
- Input Selection: 7 analog inputs, 6 digital inputs
- Output Options: Balanced and unbalanced outputs
- Home Theater Bypass: Integration with surround sound systems
- Headphone Output: Dedicated high-current amplifier
- Remote Control: Full-function aluminum remote
- Data Port: For future upgrades and connectivity
Sound Character
The C2700 combines tube and solid-state technologies in its sound:
- Tube Warmth: Rich, natural midrange with excellent vocal presence
- Solid-State Precision: Tight, controlled bass and extended highs
- Digital Transparency: High-resolution sources reveal full detail
- Analog Musicality: Vinyl playback with exceptional dynamics
- Noise-Free Operation: Remarkably quiet even at high gain
- Wide Soundstage: Excellent imaging and depth
Modern McIntosh Aesthetic
The C2700 embodies McIntosh's contemporary design language:
- Glass Front Panel: Illuminated with classic blue meters
- Aluminum Construction: Precision machined with black finish
- Illuminated Logo: Green McIntosh script on black glass
- Blue VU Meters: Real-time monitoring of output level
- Knob Design: Solid aluminum with precise detents
Collector's Notes
The C2700 is the current top of McIntosh's preamplifier line and sells for $10,000 - $12,000. It is still in production, so it comes with modern reliability. Key considerations:
- Current production ensures availability of parts and service
- Digital capabilities future-proof the investment
- Hybrid design offers tube sound without tube maintenance concerns
- Comprehensive connectivity handles any source
- Professional setup recommended for optimal performance
- Original packaging essential for transport or resale
Similar items on eBay
No exact McIntosh C2700 Modern Flagship Preamplifier listings are live right now — these searches show current McIntosh and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Documentation
- McIntosh Labs Gallery - Model database and specifications
- HiFi Engine - Original manuals and service documents
- Audio Karma McIntosh Forum - Owner discussions
- McIntosh Official Product Page - Current specifications
Legacy
The C2700 represents McIntosh's successful integration of traditional audio values with modern technology. It demonstrates that a company with deep roots in vacuum tube design can create products that meet the needs of contemporary audio enthusiasts without compromising its core identity. For those seeking a preamplifier that can handle every source from vintage vinyl to high-resolution digital, while delivering the musicality that has defined McIntosh for generations, the C2700 stands as the ultimate expression of modern preamplification.
Related Models
- McIntosh C104 (1950–1954)
- McIntosh C20
- McIntosh C200 (2000–2006)
- McIntosh C22 (1963–1968)
- McIntosh C35
- McIntosh C40 (1993-1999)
- McIntosh C47 (2020-present)
- McIntosh C500 (2003-2007)
- McIntosh C70 (2020-present)
- McIntosh C712 (1998-2002)